28-year old center Yao Ming will undergo surgery to repair a hairline fracture in his left foot next week likely ending his 2009-2010 season before it starts. Yao played in 77 games (all starts) for the Rockets last season and he averaged 33.6 minutes, 19.7 points, 9.9 rebounds, 1.8 assists and 2.0 blocks per game last season. Yao is irreplaceable for the Rockets as he is one of the best centers in the NBA. Yao has now played in 481 games (471 starts) in his seven year career with the Rockets and he has averaged 32.7 minutes, 19.1 points, 9.3 rebounds, 1.6 assists and 1.9 blocked shots per game. This is a HUGE loss for the Rockets.

The Rockets have signed 24-year old small forward Trevor Ariza to a long term contract. Ariza played in 82 games (20 starts) for the Lakers last season and he averaged 24.4 minutes, 8.9 points, 4.3 rebounds, 1.8 assists and 1.7 steals per game. Ariza has now played in 311 games (52 starts) in his NBA career and he has averaged 20.0 minutes, 6.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, 1.3 assists and 1.1 steals per game. Ariza brings a lot of energy to the basketball court and he’s a very good defensive player.